Chocolate Chess Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie requires basic pantry ingredients but delivers big on flavor and texture. The combination of cocoa powder, melted chocolate, and a touch of espresso creates a deep chocolate taste, while the cornmeal and vinegar give the filling its signature chess pie texture slightly crisp on top and soft and fudgy inside. It’s versatile enough to serve with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream, making it an all-season favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 single pie crust (homemade or store-bought, thawed)
2 cups granulated white sugar
2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, or substitute dark roast instant coffee)
¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cut into tablespoons
¼ cup 60% bittersweet chocolate chip morsels
½ cup heavy whipping cream (or substitute whole milk or half and half)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
4 large eggs

Optional toppings:
Powdered sugar
Vanilla whipped cream
Ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, crimp edges, and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, cornmeal, cocoa powder, flour, espresso powder (if using), and salt.
3. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter and chocolate chips together until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream.
4. Add vinegar and vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture and whisk until blended.
5. Pour the chocolate mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
6. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. The filling should be glossy and slightly thickened.
7. Pour filling into the prepared pie crust.
8. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is set but the center still jiggles slightly.
9. Let cool to room temperature before slicing. The pie will continue to set as it cools.
10. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream if desired.

Servings and timing

This pie serves about 8 slices.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45–50 minutes
Cooling time: 1–2 hours
Total time: About 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Mocha Flavor: Add more espresso powder for a stronger coffee-chocolate taste.
• Nutty Pie: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
• Boozy Twist: Replace vanilla with bourbon or dark rum for a grown-up version.
• Extra Chocolatey: Use dark cocoa powder and dark chocolate morsels for an intense flavor.
• Creamy Finish: Serve with a dollop of mascarpone cream instead of whipped cream.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.

FAQs

Why is it called chess pie?

The name comes from a traditional Southern custard pie, with “chess” thought to be a variation of “just pie.”

Can I use milk chocolate instead of bittersweet?

Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly to keep the pie from becoming overly sweet.

What does the cornmeal do?

It helps thicken the filling and gives the pie its signature slightly crisp top.

Do I have to use espresso powder?

No, it’s optional, but it enhances the depth of chocolate flavor.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, it can be baked a day ahead and stored in the fridge until serving.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The top should be set and slightly cracked, but the center should jiggle gently when shaken.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, both refrigerated and frozen crusts work well.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Blind-bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling if you prefer a firmer base.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, bake in two 9-inch pie pans rather than one large dish for even cooking.

What’s the best way to serve chocolate chess pie?

It’s delicious at room temperature, chilled, or slightly warmed, with whipped cream or ice cream.

Conclusion

Chocolate chess pie is a nostalgic Southern dessert that’s easy to make yet rich in flavor. With its fudgy texture, crisp topping, and classic pie crust, it’s a dessert that feels comforting and indulgent at the same time. Whether you serve it for the holidays or as a sweet weeknight treat, this pie is bound to become a family favorite.

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